Programmable Digital Labels for a Medicine Container

ABSTRACT

A bottle for storing medicine that may include at least one sensor to determine an aspect about the medicine stored within the bottle. The bottle may also include a processor that receives the information from the one or more sensors. A wireless communication interface may be integrated with the bottle to communicate information.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/607,585, filed Jan. 28, 2015 entitled “Programmable Digital Labelsfor a Medicine Container”, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/769,054, filed Feb. 15, 2013 entitled“Programmable Digital Labels for a Medicine Container”, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/164,941, filed Jun.30, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,384,517 entitled “Programmable DigitalLabels for a Medicine Container,” which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/371,530 filed Mar. 9, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No.7,392,953 entitled “Programmable Digital Labels,” which claims benefitof U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/660,500 filed Mar. 10, 2005,entitled “Transmittable Digital Product and Label Data.” Each of the'585, '054, '941, '530, and '500 applications is incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of digital labelsand tags for products. It is typical for the manufacturer of a productto affix a label to the product which bears the manufacturer's brandname or logo. Labels are also used to provide product information andinformation about the manufacturer of the product. Because labels aretypically small, they can carry only a limited amount of information.Therefore, it is not at all uncommon to find two or more labels affixedto different locations of a single product. For example, a product maycarry a brand label which is placed in a visible location, and interiorlabels to give product information. However, there is a small, finitelimit to the number of labels which can be applied to a product withoutcluttering the product.

In the past, labels have served as merely static and passive devices toconvey label information that is fixed in time, and have not been usedto expand the functionality of the product. Animated designs and logosare not possible with conventional woven, printed or stamped labels.Also, conventional labels cannot display information which may changeover time, or user-specific information.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a digital label for products that can beprogrammed to store, process, transmit and display information includinglabel information and user-specific information. The digital label canalso store authentication data to authenticate the product. The digitallabel includes a processing circuit, a memory for storing labelinformation, and a display for displaying label information. Anextensible program is stored in memory and is configured to executeuser-defined applications or program code to extend the functionality ofthe digital label. In one embodiment of the invention, the extensibleprogram comprises an operating system program with an applicationinterface that allows development of custom applications by themanufacturer, retailer, or user to expand the functionality of thedigital label. User-defined applications enable the digital label toreceive, store, and process user-specific information, and tocommunicate and work other devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary digital label.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an exemplary digital label.

FIG. 3 is a side view of an exemplary digital label contained in asecondary encasement, which is shown in section.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary software architecture for the digitallabel.

FIG. 5 illustrates the digital label communicating with other devices ina network environment.

FIG. 6 illustrates a tag for products incorporating a digital label.

FIG. 7 illustrates a digital label with a changing serial number forauthentication.

FIG. 8 illustrates a web interface for a server that product trackingservices.

FIG. 9 is a schematic drawing of a digital label incorporated in aproduct container and communicating with a computer.

FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing of a digital label incorporated in aproduct container and communicating with a computer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now to the drawings, and particularly to FIG. 1, a digitallabel 10 for products is shown and indicated generally by the numeral10. For purposes of this application, the term “digital label” means adevice having a display that functions principally as a means ofidentification that is attached or affixed to a product to designate itsorigin, owner, manufacturer, contents or ingredients, use, etc. The term“label” is used in the common sense to mean a device that isdistinguishable from the product to which it is affixed and not atypical or inherent feature of the product. For example, a computermonitor and a display for a consumer electronic device (e.g., watch,cell phone, camera, etc.) are not considered to be “labels’ as that termis used herein because the displays are inherent product features.

The digital label 10 stores and displays label information and otherinformation as more fully described below. The term “label information”includes source information indicating the source or origin of theproduct, product information describing the features contents,ingredients or use of the product, and manufacturer information thatprovides information about the product manufacturer. An example ofsource information is a brand name, logo (including animated logos), orslogan which identifies the source or origin, and authentication datafor verifying the authenticity of the product. Examples of productinformation are instructions for the care or use of the product, anddescription of the contents or ingredients of the product. Examples ofmanufacturer information are the address (including an e-mail address)or telephone number for contacting the manufacturer, and the IP addressof a web page for finding additional information about the company andits products.

The digital label may also store consumer information or userinformation in addition to label information, and perform customfunctions for the user. Consumer information is personal userinformation that affects the ownership, history, usage and effectivenessof the product. Examples of personal information are registration data,such as the name, address, contact information, weight, height, age,birth date, sex, DNA, allergies, medical and health conditions andhistory, scheduling information, personal preferences, diet, accountinformation, other product usage data, etc.

The digital label 10 is particularly useful for products that do nototherwise include a display or microprocessor as an inherent feature ofthe product, but may also be used on products with a display ormicroprocessor. For example, in products that include a display as afunctional feature of the product, the manufacturer may still use thedigital label 10 of the present invention to provide a separate,dedicated display or microprocessor for displaying and transmittingtrademarks, logos, brands, slogans, or other label and productinformation.

The digital label 10 according to the present invention provides aplatform for manufacturers, retailers and end users to develop customapplications for the digital label 10 to expand the functionality of thedigital label 10. In one embodiment, a processing circuit is configuredto recognize and execute the user-defined applications. As used herein,the term “user-defined' refers to users of the label and includesproduct manufacturers, retailers, and end users of the product. Theuser-defined applications allow the functionality of the digital label10 to be expanded to perform functions for the user. Thus, the presentinvention extends the concept of a product label to include activedevices that do more than present static information. the digital labels10 according to various embodiments function as small computing devicesthat can be programmed to perform a wide variety of functions.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the main components of the digital label 10according to one exemplary embodiment. The digital label 10 comprises aprocessing circuit 12, memory 14, display 16, a communications interface18, and a battery 19 to provide power for the digital label 10. Theprocessing circuit 12 controls the overall operation of the digitallabel 10 according to program instructions stored in memory 14 and maycomprises one or more digital processing devices, such asmicroprocessors, microcontrollers, hardware, firmware, or a combinationthereof. Memory 14 stores program instructions and data needed foroperation. An extensible program (FIG. 4) stored in memory 14 controlsthe basic functions of the digital label 10. As described in greaterdetail below, the extensible program is configured to execute customapplications or custom program code stored in memory 14 to expand thefunctionality of the digital label 10. The display 16 may comprise aliquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic light emitting diode (OLED).Additionally, the display 16 may use printed electronic displays,electronic paper displays, or electronic ink technology provide a thin,flexible and durable display to enable users to view information. Thecommunications interface 18 may comprise a short-range wirelessinterface, such as a BLUETOOTH interface, ZIGBEE, or WIFI interface, along range cellular phone or satellite communications interface, or awired interface, such as a RS 232, USB or FIREWARE interface. There maybe more than one communications interface 18.

Some embodiments of the digital label 10 may additionally include one ormore user input devices indicated generally by the numeral 20. Userinput devices 20 for the digital label 10 may comprise any known inputdevice including buttons, keypads, touch pads, wheels, dials, mousedevices, trackballs, etc. A touch screen display could also be used foruser input. Imaging systems and motion or movement systems forrecognizing hand gestures, and voice recognition systems may also beused for receiving user input. In FIG. 2, three soft keys denoted by thenumerals 22, 24, 26 are provided to receive user input. The soft keys22, 24, 26 may have different functions depending on the currentcontext. The function of the soft keys 22, 24, 26 may be displayed tothe user on display 16 when the soft keys 22, 24, 26 are active. Forexample, the middle key 26 shown in FIG. 2 has the text MENU displayedabove the key 26 on the display 16. Pressing the soft key 26 in thiscontext will invoke an onscreen menu. In some embodiments, moresophisticated user input devices can be used to enable users to inputuser information.

The digital label 10 may include or receive input from one or moresensors or detectors 30 that sense environmental conditions such astemperature, pressure and humidity; or product characteristics, such assize, volume, weight of the product, or chemical changes in the product.Sensors or detectors 30 may also be used to detect product usage and/ortampering. Sensors or detectors 30 for the digital label 10 may alsodetect location, distance or proximity. The digital label 10 mayincorporate a GPS receiver 50 or other location detector to determinelocation and history of locations. Clocks and counters may provideadditional input to the processing circuit 12. Those skilled in the artwill appreciate, however, that the processing circuit 12 may includeinternal clocks and counters.

The digital label 10 may include or control one or more alerting devices40 for alerting the user of specified events or conditions. The alertingdevices 40 may comprise indicator lights that illuminate or generatelighting effects; speakers, beepers, buzzers, or other sound devices;and vibrators or other tactile devices. The digital label 10 could alsoplay MP3 or other audio files to alert the user. The alerting devices 40are controlled by the system processor to notify the user whenpredetermined events or conditions occur. The alerts can be personalizedand customized by the user to distinguish the alerts. FIG. 2 illustratesan indicator lamp 42 that is used as an alerting device 40.

The digital label 10 may include a primary casing 60 to house thecomponents of the digital label 10. The primary casing 60 is preferablywaterproof or water-resistant to protect the components. The primarycasing 60 should also be impact resistant and shock-resistant. Thecasing 60 may be constructed of plastic, rubber, metal, ceramic, orother materials or organic, environmentally friendly protein basedmaterial that is easily recycled or returned to the earth. In someembodiments, the digital label 10 can be integrated with a product orproduct container or product packaging. In still other embodiments, asecondary encasement 62 can also be used that allows the digital label10 to be removed from the product as shown in FIG. 3. This can enablethe user to take the digital label 10 with them to interact, monitor andcontrol the product remotely.

Any suitable method of attaching the digital label 10 to the product mayalso be used. For example, the digital label 10 or secondary encasement62 may be secured to products by adhesives, by magnets, by sewing orstitching, by sonic welding laser welding or heat welding, byVELCRO-type fasteners, or by mechanical fasteners such as hooks, screws,buckles, zippers, snaps, or pins. The digital label 10 could also beentrapped or retained by other features of the product which function asthe secondary encasement 62. For example, the label 10 could be designedas a cartridge which slides in a pocket or pouch on the product orsnapped into the product and released by a mechanism. The digital label10 may also be suspended from or secured to the product by means of ahanger, strap or cord that passes though an opening (not shown) in thecasing 60.

FIG. 4 illustrates the relationship of the extensible program with otherelements of the digital label 10. The extensible program may comprise,for example, an operating system program with an application interface(API) to enable manufacturers, retailers, and end users to developcustom applications for the digital label 10. The operating system may,for example, be an embedded operating system such as Windows CE,Symbian, QNX, or embedded Linux. A proprietary operating system couldalso be used. A label application for managing and displaying labelinformation can be preloaded and stored in the memory 104 of the digitallabel 10 by the label manufacturer. Additional user-defined applicationprograms can be input and stored to add additional functions to thedigital label 10 by the product manufacturer, by retailers of theproducts, or by end users of the products. The custom applicationprograms can be input via one of the communication interfaces 18. Theoperating system or other extensible program is able to execute thecustom applications developed by the product manufacturer, retailer, orend user. The type of functions that can be performed by customapplications is virtually unlimited. For example, the applicationprograms can perform functions such as product authentication, locationtracking, scheduling, usage tracking, etc.

One advantage of the digital label 10 is its ability to communicate andshare information with other devices. The digital label 10 may have itsown IP address assigned so that it can communicate directly with otherdevices across the Internet. FIG. 5 illustrates different ways thedigital label 10 can communicate with other devices. FIG. 5 illustratesa local computer 110, a web-based server system 120, and a cell phone orPDA 140. The digital label 10 communicates with the local computer 110over a local area network. The digital label 10 may communicate with aweb-based server system 120 by connecting to a web access point 130. Thedigital label 10 may also communicate with the cell phone or PDA 140,using a standard cellular or satellite transceiver.

The digital label 10 may store, process and communicate userinformation. The user information may be entered directly by the user ormay be transferred over the communications interface 18 to the digitallabel 10. For example, the digital label 10 may collect informationabout the use of the product and store the information for subsequentviewing and analysis. The digital label 10 may generate history reportsthat can be viewed by the user on the display 16 or transferred to otherdevices. Also, label information stored in the digital label 10 at thetime of purchase by the customer can be updated via the communicationsinterface 18.

The variety of applications that can be developed for the digital labelis virtually limitless. A few exemplary applications for the digitallabel 10 are described below.

EXAMPLE 1 Tag For Authentication and Product Tracking

A recurring problem with branded and successful goods, such as designerand luxury clothing, handbags, accessories, jewelry, luggage,medication, liquor, and replacement parts, is the prevalence ofcounterfeit goods. As noted above, the digital label 10 of the presentinvention may store authentication data that enables purchasers of suchgoods to verify the authenticity of the products they purchase. Theauthentication data may comprise, for example, a serial number or codethat can be used by the purchaser to authenticate genuine products. Insome exemplary embodiments, the authentication data may be encryptedwith a secret code to prevent counterfeiters from duplicating digitallabels 10. The authentication data may also change over time to make itmore difficult to mimic. The digital label 10 may also include a GPSreceiver to enable tracking of the product in case that the product islost or stolen.

FIG. 6 illustrates a tag including a digital label 10 for products suchand luggage, handbags, and brief cases. The digital label 10 stores anauthentication number or serial number in memory 14 to enable users toauthenticate genuine goods. The memory 14 for storing the authenticationdata may be a secure, tamper-proof memory to prevent tampering. Theserial number may also be encrypted by the manufacturer with a secretkey. For example, the serial number may be encrypted or signed with themanufacturer's private key and can be verified by the user by decryptingthe serial number using the manufacturer's corresponding public key,which can be obtained from the manufacturer's web site. If theauthentication data is successfully decrypted, the user can be confidentthat the product is a genuine product so long as the manufacturer'sprivate key has not been compromised. The user can also verify theauthenticity of the product by sending the serial number to themanufacturer during product registration for verification. Theauthentication number could be read by the user from the digital label10, or could be transmitted from the digital label 10 to the user'scomputer or other device. In some embodiments, the digital label 10could transmit the authentication number via the Internet to a servermaintained by the manufacturer for verification.

The digital label 10 can be programmed to change or update the serialnumber at a predetermined interval to make it more difficult to mimic.FIG. 7 illustrates a digital label 10 that has a changing serial number.In this embodiment, the digital label 10 may include an algorithm forgenerating the authentication number that is known only to the productmanufacturer. For example, the algorithm may comprises a function thatgenerates an authentication code based on the current time and a secretkey that is stored in a secure, tamper-proof memory.

The tag or digital label may include a GPS system 50 to enable trackingof the product. The global positioning system in the digital label 10can determine and record the product's location periodically. Thisfeature can be activated, for example, when the user is traveling tokeep a history of the product's movement. The product manufacturer maymaintain the web-based server to track products for its registeredcustomers. An application program in the digital label 10 can report thecurrent position of the product to the server at predetermined timeintervals or in response to predetermined events or conditions. FIG. 8illustrates an interface for a web-based tracking system that can beaccessed by the user via the Internet to track the product.

EXAMPLE 2 Product Container For Medications

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a pharmaceutical container 100 for medicationsincluding a digital label 10 according to one embodiment of theinvention. The pharmaceutical container 100 comprises a bottle 102 and acap 104. The digital label 10 is embedded in the walls of the bottle102. The digital label 10 includes three buttons 22, 24 and 26 forreceiving user input. Buttons 22 and 24 are used to navigate on-screenmenus and to scroll through information on the display 16. The centerbutton 26 is used to invoke the on-screen menu and make menu selections.The digital label 10 includes an indicator lamp 42 and weight sensor 32,which are integrated with the bottle 102. The indicator lamp 42functions as an alerting device 40 for alerting the user when it is timeto take medication as described more fully below. The weight sensor 32located in the bottom of the product container 100 is used to detect theamount of remaining medication in the pharmaceutical container. Thedigital label 10 also includes a wireless communications interface 18for communicating with remote devices, such as a computer 150.

The digital label 10 stores and displays prescription data customizedfor the user as well as detailed drug data. The prescription data anddrug data may be uploaded from a computer 150 to the digital label 10 bythe manufacturer, pharmacist, doctor, or end user. In this example, theprescription data includes the medication, patient's name, and dosageinformation. Drug data may include information about medications, suchas ingredients and chemical composition, possible side effects and druginteractions, precautions, warnings, government regulations, legalnotices, disclaimers and disclosures, notifications, medication updates,recalls, etc. Such information is typically too voluminous to print on aconventional printed label, but can be easily stored and displayed onthe digital label 10. Drug information including updates could also betransmitted to a computer 150 over the communications interface 18 forviewing or printing. The digital label 10 could also communicate with aweb-based server, cell phone, personal digital assistant, etc., totransmit and receive information.

An application program stored in the digital label 10 alerts the userwhen it is time to take medications, provides instructions on how totake medications, and records dosages taken by the user. The applicationprogram may also keep track of the remaining amount of medication andalert the user when it is time to have medications refilled. The amountof remaining medication may be determined from the input of the weightsensor 32. Alternatively, the user may manually input usage informationwhen the user takes medication to record such event. The user can bealerted to take or refill medication by activating the indicator lamp 42and displaying a message to the user on the display 16 as shown in FIG.10. The digital label 10 may also, if desired, send a message to theuser's cell phone or computer when it is time to take or refillmedications. For example, the application may send an email or textmessage to the user's cell phone or computer. When it is time to refillmedications, the digital label 10 may also send a notification to theuser's pharmacist to avoid the need for calling in prescriptions inadvance.

The application program may also collect and store usage information,such as the date and time that the medication is taken, the amounttaken, the location, and environmental conditions (temperature,humidity, altitude, etc.) at the time medication is taken. Usageinformation may be determined based on input from the weight,temperature, humidity and other sensors 32. Alternatively, the user canmanually enter and record usage information using the available userinput devices 20. The usage information may be output to the display 16or transmitted to a computer 150 or other external device, or processedalong with information from other digital labels and products tocoordinate multiple usage and consumption.

The application program in the digital label 10 may cooperate with orintegrate with medication management software on computer 150 or otherdevice, such as a cell phone, PDA, or web-based server system. Thedigital label 10 can exchange prescription data, drug data and/or userdata with the computer 150 or other device. The medication managementsoftware on the computer 150 can thus keep track of all medicationsbeing taken by the user and alert the user to potential problems andprovide updates to the digital label 10 when necessary. The medicationmanagement software may include a database of pharmaceutical products.The medication management software can alert the user of potentiallyadverse drug interactions and side effects due to combinations ofmedications being taken. The medication management software may alsoinclude scheduling algorithms for suggesting times to take differentmedications to minimize drug interactions and maximize efficacy. Amedication schedule can then be generated and transferred to the digitallabel 10 by the medication management software. The medicationmanagement software can also store information concerning the user'sdiet and suggest foods and beverages that should be used or avoided.Usage information indicating the dosages taken by the user can betransferred from the digital label 10 to the medication managementsoftware for evaluation and/or storage. This medication history may betransferred or uploaded to a physician. Alternatively, the digital label10 can store medication history for later transfer to a computer at aphysician's office.

Provisional Patent Application No. 60/660,500

Aspects of the system were originally disclosed in U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/660,500 filed Mar. 10, 2005, entitled“Transmittable Digital Product and Label Data.” This provisional patentapplication was incorporated by reference through the family ofpatents/applications to the present application. The text of thisincorporated provisional patent application is reproduced below.

“Transmittable Digital Product and Label Data”

Current labels affixed to any thing, product or object, etc. is printed.Objects and products can also have an embedded RFID micro-chip whichonly contains a code of numbers that can be transmitted through radiofrequency signals to and from the chip (which is attached to object orproduct). The code is not actual product, labeling, personal or any kindof real information. The code that transmits back and forth from theRFID chip is a reference code that is matched in a computer system thatidentifies the product, object or thing it is attached onto.

A “digital labeling device” is a compact electronic device that containsin the micro-chip or processor or memory actual product, labeling,personal or any kind of actual information programmed into andtransmitted to and from the device by the manufacturers, end users,retailers or advertisers or any person or organization that has accessto the digital labeling device. This device can have any appearance andany combination of electronic components depending upon the end useapplication and specification.

The innovation and novelty is the actual digitized product, labeling,personal, custom or any type of information in any spoken or writtenhuman language that can be saved in the device that is affixed orattached or programmed to or into the actual product or object anddisplayed from the device and transmitted to and from the device to alarger computer (s) or computer system (s) or any electronic device suchas a cell phone, PDA, game console, digital camera, etc. This isdifferent from current technology where an RFID chip embedded onto aproduct or object contains and transmits only a code or rather areference number. It does not contain, transmit or display or output anyactual product, label, object or personal information. An RFID chip andits code is useless to the end user or consumer or everyday personbecause it is a code or identification number used in logistical andinventory computer systems used by manufacturers and retail. Productinformation is crossed referenced or accessed only by matching the codeto the product information in a separate computer system and notimmediately on the actual product.

Modern product and labeling information is dynamic and literallyinterconnected to supporting products and services. How and when theuser interacts with the product or object affects the product andlabeling information. Product life, product performance and its recordedhistory of interaction and usage affects the value of the object andproduct. For example, a car's value is based upon it's [sic] usage, careand service. Typically there is a paper trail of service and performancerecords. With digital labeling, all of that data can be stored indigital label where the digital label can monitor, maintain and transmitthe digital product data to other computer systems. And when time toresell the car, all of this digital product data can transmit to acomputer with internet connection and the car can be sold online. Oranother example is a luxury good such as a luxury purse can constantlyupdate its digital product data with its digital label. The digitallabel can transmit the data to a personal computer where the owner/usercan catalog all goods owned. This example computer system utilizesproduct and label data sent from digital labels to catalog all productsand objects in use by a user or users. The computer system can furtheranalyze, track, monitor, maintain, manage all products/objectsperformance, data, value, history etc. Based upon custom software,settings, functions, etc. the computer system can transmit and sendproduct data to and from product/objects with digital labels and toother computer systems for selling, further analysis, maintenance,service, etc.

Example Applications

For example, instead of reading pages of fine print or instructions,warranties, diagrams, etc on any product packaging, all this informationin a digital label can be transmitted to any other device or computerand filed and stored digitally onto a computer system and be furthersent through other electronic means such as email and over the internet,cellular, satellite, RF, etc. Another example application would be aprescription medication with a digital label that stores precisediagrams and instructions and dosages of how to use the medicine;warnings, cautions, when best to take the medication, what not to mixthe medication, alarms when to take it, authentic medication,illustrations and animations on how it works, etc. all displayed for theuser on a display screen and can be wirelessly sent to the user's owncomputer system to keep track of all the medication, products, food theuser is consuming. The pharmaceutical manufacturer can program the datainto the label at the factory or the pharmacists can program “blank”digital labels with the proper prescription data for each customer/enduser. Most of this important medical information for drug use is in verysmall text and designed not to be read. Digital drug product data can bedisplayed on the digital label on the actual medicine where the data aseither text or instructional diagrams or animations can be enlarged forolder patients/users or transmitted to a computer system for furtherorganization (with other medications) and print out on standard paperfor easier reading. The digital label can send a reminder to take themedication to the user's cell phone if the user has skipped a dosage.These are examples of features and functionalities, they illustrate theconceptual possibilities yet it does not limit further possibilities formore and unseen features and functionality.

Example Digital Product and Label Information

The information can be any information relating to the object or productthe digital labeling device is affixed, attached or integrated to; someexamples are but not limited to are: name, product style information,product info, color, care, content, material, ingredients, volume,weight, size, descriptions, performance data, research data, recyclinginfo, manufacturing info, regulation info, origin, authentication,design, notes, coupons, discounts, marketing, advertisements,promotions, endorsements, signatures, product reviews, trials, clinicaltrials, astrological effects of product to user, website addresses andlinks, email addresses, customer service info, company and productcontact info, nutritional info, medical data, pharmaceutical info,dosage, warnings, cautions, side effects, data from the government,patent info, trademark info, copyright info, FDA approval, recommendeddaily allowances, diet info, chemical composition, scientific data,disease info, instructions, opening instructions, illustrations,diagrams, warranty, authorization, owner's or owners' name or names,record and history of ownership, biographies, provenance, value, historyand record of value, guarantee, legal info, rights, disclaimers, storageinformation, user names, passwords, security, safety, warnings,precautions, cautions, hazards, emergency, rescue, recycling info,video, movie clips, moving graphics, sound, sounds, audio, music,jingles, sound bytes, recordings, ring tones, lyrics, art, artist info,production credit, credits, management info, times, dates, inceptiondates, expiration dates, ship dates, manufacture dates, shelf life,product life, alarms, animated logos and branding, graphics, animatedpresentations, personal information, allergies, seals of approvals,awards, restrictions, stories, calculations, global positioning ofproduct, location record and history, product history and story, companyhistory and story, brand history and story, merchandising info, catalogof goods, matching goods, goods that accessorize with product, retailinfo and contact data, in any or all languages, etc. all pre-programmedat manufacture or custom programmed by the end user or transmitted fromadvertisers, retailers or anyone who has access to the device.

Example Digital Label Device Hardware/Electronic Composition

A “digital labeling device” comprises of a micro-chip(s) or processor(s) in any various forms: flexible, silicon, printed, organic orchemical; powered or not powered by electricity from conduction, staticelectricity or from a battery in any various forms: button watch cell,battery pack, rechargeable, flexible, plastic battery, printable,organic, solar, etc.; and may or may not have a display in any variousforms; flexible, LCD, OLED, LED, chemical organic, holographic,projected, etc backlit or non backlit display; or output by any meanssuch as speech, sound, alarms, magnetic resonance, sonic codes, secretcodes, scent, etc; encased in any type of sealed casing made from anytype of sealed casing either hard or soft along with or without memorychips, RAM chips, or micro hard drive or external memory cardcapabilities; wireless communication chips: RF, two way RF, or anywireless transmission technique, or wired data ports; USB; USB II,Firewire, Ethernet, modem or any custom port; the device can be affixedor attached to any object or product or packaging or any shape or sizeby any means such as any type of adhesion, chemical attachment, bonding,sonic welding, welded, soldered, Velcro, glue, double stick tape, anytype of tape, sewn, hung, hooked, magnetic attachment, snapped,buttoned, zipped, slotted in, snapped on, twisted on, screwed onto,riveted, squeezed in pressure, suction, static electricity, etc. Thedigital labeling device can also be integrated into existing product orobject and utilize the product or object's power, display or electronicsto display or transmit digital product and labeling info and data. Inputmethods for the label include touch screen, button, keyboard, wired andwireless transmission, speech, movement, hand gestures, etc. in anysize, shape or form.

The device may also feature electronic sensors that monitor the productor object against external, and or internal conditions, environment andall other data that will affect the product's or object's originalproduct or labeling data. The sensors either electronic, digital oranalog will monitor, gauge, calculate, record temperature, location,volume, size, dosage, weight, activity, shape, movement, proximity toanything else, users, security, authentication, tampering, etc. (ie. allthe types and examples of data listed previously for product andlabeling information).

In essence, the digital labeling device hardware, or electroniccomposition is the CPU (central processing unit) for digitized label andproduct data. With the combination of hardware, electronic features,functions, OS (operation system), sensors, software etc, the digitallabeling device will provide users with enhanced product usage throughadvanced digital product and label management, display andfunctionality.

Operating System and Software

For the digital labeling device, an “operating system” or primary deviceprogram/code will enable manufacturers, advertisers, retailers, endusers and anyone with access to the digital labels to create software(digital code instructions) for the digital labeling device. Digitallabeling software will instruct the device to perform custom product,object and label data functions that can monitor and perform tasks thataffect product and label data. Operating system code manages thestandard operations of the labeling device such as on/off, internalclock, processing of data and management of communication, sensors andother hardware. The OS also manages the various software programs thatcreate, run and process product and labeling data that createfunctionality and advanced features for the user.

For example, if the product such a perishable good or blood or organreaches an expiration temperature then the sensors will notify the OS inwhich the OS will send a warning signal to another computer, system ordevice. The display will show a warning with full detail and sound anaudio alarm. It can also activate or send instructions to another deviceor call for help in an emergency. Further, if a product or object istampered with the device can activate an alarm and send a signal to theuser's cell phone and to the authorities. Yet another example is if apatient forgets to take medicine the digital label on the medicinebottle will note the prescribed dosage time, sensors will read theweight of the bottle and realize that the dosage was not taken atprescribed time and will send a reminder to the patient/user's cellphone kindly reminding the patient to take the prescribed dosage. On thedigital label, a beeping alarm will sound and a reminder will appear onthe display. The patient will take the dosage and the digital label willnote the dosage taken at x time and will send an update to computersystems (patient, pharmacist, doctor and manufacturer computer systems)noting the dosage taken, date and time. All of these examples are justexamples of software instructing the operating system of the digitallabel to perform monitoring and function tasks based upon changes inproduct and labeling data, product performance and functionality. The“label operating system” of the digital labeling device provides thedevice with an “open platform” for end user software that programs orinstructs the device to perform custom tasks.

Several examples of the invention have been described. However, thepresent invention may be carried out in other specific ways than thoseherein set forth without departing from the spirit and essentialcharacteristics of the invention. The present embodiments are,therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and notrestrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalencyrange of the appended claims are intended to be embraced therein.

1. (canceled)
 2. A device configured to be affixed to a medicalcontainer, the device comprising: a label comprising first and secondsides, the first side configured to be attached to an outer surface ofthe medical container, the label further comprising a processing circuitand a memory circuit; the processing circuit configured to executeinstructions stored in said memory circuit to output signals containinginformation related to contents of the medical container; and an outputdevice to generate audible sounds based on the signals to convey theinformation related to the contents of the medical container.
 3. Thedevice of claim 2, wherein the processing circuit is further configuredto communicate with a remote device to receive data related to thecontents of the medical container.
 4. The device of claim 3, furthercomprising a wireless communications interface operatively coupled tosaid label to communicate with the remote device.
 5. The device of claim2, further comprising a display on the second side of the label, thedisplay configured to display the information related to the contents ofthe medical container.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the display isconfigured to display video of the information related to the contentsof the medical container.
 7. The device of claim 2, further comprisingan adhesive on the first side of the label, the adhesive configured toattach the label to the outer surface of the medical container.
 8. Thedevice of claim 2, wherein the information related to the contents ofthe medical container is stored in said memory circuit prior to beingoutput on the output device,
 9. The device of claim 2, wherein theinformation related to the contents of the medical container that areoutput through the output device comprises a dosage amount.
 10. Thedevice of claim 5, wherein the display is configured to displayinstructions and a diagram on how to use the contents of the medicalcontainer.
 11. The device of claim 2, further comprising a battery tosupply power to the processing circuit.
 12. A device configured to beaffixed to a medical container, the device comprising: a labelcomprising first and second sides, the first side configured to beattached to an outer surface of the medical container, the label furthercomprising a processing circuit and a memory circuit; and an inputdevice configured to receive speech instructions from a user; theprocessing circuit configured to execute the speech instructionsreceived by the input device.
 13. The device of claim 12, wherein theprocessing circuit is configured to execute the speech instructions andcause information to be output to the user, the information comprisingdata related to the contents of the medical container.
 14. The device ofclaim 13, further comprising the information that is output to the userbeing audible sounds.
 15. The device of claim 13, further comprising adisplay on the second side of the label, the display configured todisplay information related to the contents of the medical container.16. The device of claim 15, wherein the processing circuit is configuredto display a dosage amount on the display.
 17. The device of claim 12,wherein the processing circuit is further configured to communicate witha remote device to receive data related to the contents of the medicalcontainer.
 18. The device of claim 17, further comprising a wirelesscommunications interface operatively coupled to said label tocommunicate with the remote device.
 19. The device of claim 12, whereinthe information related to the contents of the medical container isstored in said memory circuit prior to being output on the outputdevice.
 20. The device of claim 12, wherein the information related tothe contents of the medical container that are output through the outputdevice comprises a dosage amount.
 21. A device configured to be affixedto a medical container, the label device comprising: a label comprisingfirst and second sides, the first side configured to be attached to themedical container, the label further comprising a processing circuit anda memory circuit; one or more sensors configured to monitor contentsthat are stored in the medical container; the processing circuitconfigured to execute instructions stored in said memory circuit oreceive signals from the one or more sensors and determine an amount ofthe contents that are stored in the medical container.
 22. The device ofclaim 21, further comprising a display on the second side of the label,the display configured to display information relating to the contentsof the medical container.
 23. The device of claim 22, wherein thedisplay is configured to display video of the information related to thecontents of the medical container.
 24. The device of claim 22, whereinthe display is configured to display instructions and a diagram on howto use the contents stored in the medical container.
 25. The device ofclaim 21, wherein the processing circuit is further configured tocommunicate with a remote device to receive data related to the contentsof the medical container.
 26. The device of claim 25, further comprisinga wireless communications interface operatively coupled to said label tocommunicate with the remote device.
 27. The device of claim 21, whereinthe information related to the contents of the medical container isstored in said memory circuit prior to being output on the outputdevice.
 28. The device of claim 21, wherein the information related tothe contents of the medical container that are output through the outputdevice comprises a dosage amount.